Antithrombotic therapy after insertion of a femoral or carotid artery stent

Insertion of a stent into a large artery, such as a femoral or carotid artery, is associated with a lower risk of thrombosis than insertion into a smaller artery (ie a coronary artery). Antithrombotic drugs are not routinely recommended following insertion of a stent into the femoral or carotid artery, although low-dose aspirin (and in some cases dual antiplatelet therapy) may be indicated for underlying atherosclerosis. One study found that in patients with peripheral artery disease who had undergone lower-extremity revascularisation, rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily plus aspirin was associated with better outcomes compared with aspirin alone¹Bonaca, 2020.